sneak preview

noun

1. a preview of a motion picture, often shown in addition to an announced film, in order to observe the reaction of the audience.

sneak preview

noun

1. a screening of a film at an unexpected time to test audience reaction before its release

Word History and Origins

Origin of sneak preview¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Idioms and Phrases

An advance showing of something, as in It was supposed to be bad luck but she gave the bridegroom a sneak preview of her wedding gown . This expression originated in the 1930s for a single public showing of a motion picture before its general release, and in succeeding decades was transferred to other undertakings.

Example Sentences

Leading the sneak preview tour was Gillian Calbi, a 23-year-old from New Jersey, US, who is currently studying in Manchester; and Ben McCormick, 16, who lives in Holmes Chapel and attends Styles' old school.

From BBC

With … more of the same regarding every aforementioned topic, although he gives a little sneak preview of his forthcoming One Nation broadcast, where West Virginia’s own Joe Manchin will have “lots to say about his own party.”

From Slate

With … more of the same regarding every aforementioned topic, although he gives a little sneak preview of his forthcoming One Nation broadcast, where West Virginia’s own Joe Manchin will have “lots to say about his own party.”

From Slate

You maybe got a sneak preview the other week of Kenny Macintyre eating a sandwich.

From BBC

Wembanyama got a sneak preview of the newest technology at a rehearsal on Thursday for the tech summit.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• world premiere